World Children's Day celebrated today

Ordering a Big Mac today will do more than satisfy hunger. It may help save lives.

"On World Children's Day, Northern Nevadans will have an incredibly simple way to join a worldwide effort and have a direct effect in our community by simply visiting McDonald's and purchasing a Big Mac, Egg McMuffin or one of the kids' meals," said Mary O'Brien, executive director of the local Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Proceeds from the selected menu items will go directly to support programs provided through Ronald McDonald House in Reno. The house provides a place for families of seriously ill children to stay during the children's hospital stay and treatment.

Since 1987, the Reno facility has served more than 5,700 families and had more than 37,000 single-night visits.

The charity also provides high school scholarships, awarding $155,500 to Northern Nevada students in the last three years.

The organization also gave $131,894 in 28 community grants.

"This fund-raiser has the potential to be a big benefit for Ronald McDonald Charities at the four Carson City locations," said Sean Greenfield, marketing coordinator.

Greenfield is encouraging people to forego fancy meals for a day in exchange for fast food to support charity.